Basil: Italian Large Leaf (Ocimum basilicum)

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Chefs in the Neapolitan region of Italy regard this variety of sweet, Genovese-type basil as the essential type of basil for their traditional cuisine. Native to India and ancient Persia, basil has a long history as one of the most revered of herbs. Ancient legends give basil a strong religious connection, stating that it possesses healing powers. In many cultures basil is a symbol of love, and given as a token of affection or engagement; other meanings include protection and truth. In Greek and Roman cultures, however, basil represented hate and misfortune; because of this, gardeners would often shout abuses at their plants to help them grow. It seems that no one could agree on the properties of basil, with divided opinions on whether it had medical benefits or whether it contained poison. Since English royalty preferred basil and used it for both culinary and cosmetic purposes, chefs sometimes call it "the king of herbs." In addition to being popular with the ruling class, basil was commonly used throughout England and loved for its scent; many people included it in their gardens, added it to their bouquets, and used it to freshen the air in their houses. Medicinally, oil of basil is often used in treatments as diverse as depression and anxiety, the common cold, a cough or sore throat, or insect bites and stings. Medicinal doses of basil are unsafe for pregnant women, though culinary use is fine.

Hardiness:Very Tender. Basil is not at all hardy and can't stand any frost.

Crops:Spring Transplant, Summer

Growing Season:Short, Long

Growing Conditions:Warm, Hot. Basil is very unhappy if it isn't warm, so in cooler areas it should be in the warmest spot in the garden. If this still isn't warm enough then grow it under cloches. It will tolerate some shade when growing in hot climates, but does better in full sun.

Outdoor Growing Temp:60°F - 90°F

Min Outdoor Soil Temp:70°F. Basil needs warm (75ºF - 85ºF) soil.

Start Indoors:Yes

Start Outdoors: Yes

Light:Sun: min. 6 hours daily (Warm, Hot). Full sun.

Water:Moderate. Basil likes evenly moist soil.

Feeder:Light. Low nitrogen. Low potassium. Low phosphorous. Basil isn't a very hungry plant, but for maximum leaf production it should be given fertile soil.

Suitability: High heat

Small Gardens?: Yes

Containers?:Yes. Basil does well in containers as small as a one gallon plant pot, and is great to grow on the kitchen windowsill (especially in cool climates). Transplant one seedling per 6" pot or 3 seedlings per 12" pot. Because basil is a heat-loving plant, it is crucial to place the container in an area with access to at least 4 hours of sunlight per day. Basil requires temperatures of 75 degrees F or higher in order to thrive, so it's not the best option for Winter growing (unless you keep your house well-heated.) Use well-drained, nutrient-rich potting soil and keep the soil moist but not overly wet.

Garden Uses:As a seasoning herb in many vegetable and meat dishes, or as a key ingredient of pesto and other condiments.

Since basil thrives in warm weather, it grows best when the soil has warmed and there is no chance of frost. Gardeners with short growing seasons may want to start their seeds indoors 3-4 weeks before the last frost date, sowing them thinly in flats and providing heat to speed germination. Transplant 15-18" apart. To direct sow, plant the seeds 1/4" deep in rich soil and full sun, thinning to 15-18" apart when the seedlings develop. Basil also grows well indoors or as a container plant.

Basil thrives in soil that drains well, yet needs water often. If the weather drops below 50 degrees, provide protection. As the plant grows, pruning it helps it to develop into a bushy, healthy plant; pruning is also important because once the plant flowers, it will begin to wilt and die. To prune the plant, remove the top several sets of leaves on each stem, taking care to leave at least three sets of leaves on the lower part.

The biggest problem with Basil is its dislike of cold weather. It just won't thrive if it isn't warm. Fortunately this isn't a problem in summer in most of North America.

Water Needs:Moderate. Basil likes evenly moist soil.

Fertilizer Needs:Light. Low nitrogen. Low potassium. Low phosphorous. Basil isn't a very hungry plant, but for maximum leaf production it should be given fertile soil.

Watering, regularly:Water, 0.5 inch(es), regularly, 2 times a week. Watering also depends on your local weather; don't water if it's raining, or water more frequently if it's dry. Just be sure to keep soil moist but never soggy for the best crop. The best way to know how much moisture is in your soil is to feel 2" below the soil line. If it's dry, water. Dry soil may encourage the plants to bolt.

Side Dressing, regularly: Compost tea, 5 gallon(s) per 100 sq. ft., regularly, every 3 weeksIf you are repeatedly harvesting from the same plants, you should give them a liquid feed of compost tea, liquid kelp or fish emulsion), every three weeks. Apply this as a soil drench, rather than as a foliar feed, as you don't want to spray the leaves and then eat them. Don't harvest within 2 weeks of feeding.

Weeding, after sowing: after sowing, 1 time a week. Be sure to keep the young plants free of weeds.

Pruning, when 6" tall:when 6" tall, 1 time. The growing tips should be pinched out when the plants are 6˝ to 8˝ tall (this is actually the first harvest). This causes them to send up two growing tips, making the plants bushier and larger.

Pruning, at flowering: at flowering, 2 times a week. Basil stops producing leaves once the flower starts. Continually pinching the flowers off can prolong the harvest of the leaves.

Support:No

harvesting

Ripening:You can start harvesting individual leaves and growing tips as soon as they are large enough to be worthwhile.

storage

​You can freeze the leaves whole in a plastic bag, but a better idea is to put the chopped leaves in ice cube trays and cover them with water. Once they are frozen you can transfer them to a plastic bag.

Storage Req:Freezer Storage Temp: 32°F Storage Length: 1-360 days

It is possible to store the fresh leaves by packing them in a jar and covering with olive oil.

Storage Req: Canning Storage Temp: °F Storage Length: 1-180 days

The easiest way to store Basil is to dry it in a warm shady place. This alters its flavor considerably, but it is still very good. It must be dried quickly though; if it takes too long it will deteriorate and turn black. Store in an airtight container in the pantry or on the spice rack.

Basil has thin leaves and wilts quickly once cut. It will keep for a few days in a plastic bag in the fridge. You can also extend its life by keeping it in water like cut flowers (still store in fridge).​Storage Req: Refrigerator Storage Temp: 35-40°F Storage Length: 1-5 days

Bees love Basil flowers and will cross-pollinate any plants within 150 feet of each other. For this reason you should only have one variety flowering at one time. Basil sets seed very readily; all you have to do is leave it alone. Don't collect seeds from the first plants to flower (remove them), as you don't want to select an early bolting strain.

Seed Viability in Years:5 - 8 yearsGermination Percentage:75%

Taste:Luscious leafy full-bodied, which is perfect for pesto.

Culinary Use:It is one of the most important culinary herbs of all (in Greece it's known as the king of herbs). It is traditionally used to flavor tomatoes and eggs and is an essential ingredient of Italian and Thai cooking. Probably its best-known use is for making pesto (or the French equivalent pistou). Great used fresh or dried!

Sweet basil has been used for thousands of years as a culinary and medicinal herb. It acts principally on the digestive and nervous systems, easing flatulence, stomach cramps, colic and indigestion. The leaves and flowering tops are antispasmodic, aromatic, carminative, digestive, galactogogue, stomachic and tonic. They are taken internally in the treatment of feverish illnesses (especially colds and influenza), poor digestion, nausea, abdominal cramps, gastro-enteritis, migraine, insomnia, depression and exhaustion. Externally, they are used to treat acne, loss of smell, insect stings, snake bites and skin infections. The leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season and are used fresh or dried. The mucilaginous seed is given in infusion in the treatment of gonorrhoea, dysentery and chronic diarrhoea. It is said to remove film and opacity from the eyes. The root is used in the treatment of bowel complaints in children. Extracts from the plant are bactericidal and are also effective against internal parasites. The essential oil is used in aromatherapy. Its keyword is "Clearing".

Project Purity Seeds can not take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.

Plant with tomatoes to improve growth and flavor. Basil also does well with peppers, oregano, asparagus and petunias. Basil can be helpful in repelling thrips. It is said to repel flies and mosquitoes. Do not plant near rue or sage.

Nutrition

Basil contains some powerful antioxidants that give it anti-cancer activity. It may also help to lower cholesterol.

Skin Care: With such an impressive concentration of antioxidants and flavonoids, basil seeds are able to improve the health of the skin and stimulate the growth of new cells. The antioxidants are able to counter the effects of free radicals, which can cause oxidative stress and eventually lead to cellular mutation, resulting in wrinkles, age spots, and blemishes. Regular use of these seeds can reduce the appearance of those marks, as well as scars and act as an anti-aging substance.

Hair Care: With a significant level of iron and various antioxidants, as well as vitamin K, basil seeds can stimulate the production of hair and prevent premature hair loss. The iron is essential for circulation to drive blood to the scalp and is also required for the production of strong hair from the follicles. The antioxidants in these seeds will help prevent inflammation and oxidative stress on the scalp, which can often lead to hair loss.

Weight Loss: Basil seeds are extremely high in fiber, which works to bulk up the stool and make you feel full to prevent overeating and snacking between meals. Furthermore, when these seeds are digested, they may swell to 20 times their original size, physically filling you up and satisfying your appetite, making it much easier to avoid those calorie-heavy snacks.

Lower Cholesterol Levels: Studies have shown that sweet basil seeds are directly associated with a decrease in LDL or bad cholesterol levels, which means a lower risk of atherosclerosis and plaque deposition in the arteries and blood vessels. This will also reduce strain on the heart and reduce your chances of heart attack and stroke.

Control Blood Pressure: Research has found that the level of potassium in basil seeds is enough to directly impact blood pressure. This hypotensive effect is because potassium is a vasodilator, meaning that it can relax the tension in the arteries and blood vessels, thus reducing strain on the cardiovascular system.

Boost Bone Health: With a diverse range of minerals in basil seeds, including iron, potassium, copper, calcium, manganese, and magnesium, eating these seeds on a regular basis will help improve bone mineral density. This will lower your risk of developing osteoporosis, keeping you feeling young and strong as you age.

Prevent Diseases: There is a notable amount of vitamin A and other antioxidants in basil seeds, which can help reduce oxidative stress and chronic inflammation around the body. This will lower the pressure on your immune system, and also prevent a number of different pathogenic infections and medical conditions. Chronic disease is also caused by an excess of free radicals in the body, which is countered by dietary supplementation with sabja seeds.

Control Blood Sugar: A number of studies have shown that the active ingredients, such as dietary fiber, found in basil seeds are able to control blood sugar levels. For people suffering from type 2 diabetes, this is a very important benefit of these seeds, as the inability to control insulin and glucose levels is a potentially deadly part of that condition. A glass of water with basil seeds in the morning can improve your insulin sensitivity throughout the day.

Cooling Effects: In many Asian countries, basil seeds are famed for their cooling effects on the body, as they can help retain the cold temperatures of beverages and essentially soothe the stomach. While this is a vague and somewhat arbitrary health benefit, these seeds are popularly consumed by people suffering from fevers and other inflammatory conditions, where this cooling effect seems most pronounced.

Relieve Stress: If your mind is racing and your stress levels continue to climb, a glass of water filled with basil seeds might be a quick and simple solution to your anxiety. Research has found that regular consumption of basil seeds can help reduce episodes of depression, boost your mood, and reduce levels of stress hormones in the body.

Improve Vision: Given these seeds’ notable amount of vitamin A, they are often recommended for people with failing vision or those with high levels of oxidative stress. Vitamin A acts as a powerful antioxidant in the retina, preventing the development of cataracts and slowing down the advent of macular degeneration.

Relieve Pain: When it comes to conditions like arthritis, gout, headaches, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), basil seeds are known to reduce the severity of those episodes and provide pain relief rather quickly. By preventing the release of pro-inflammatory compounds and cytokines, the active ingredients in these seeds take an active role in many common health conditions.

Basil Seeds Side Effects:These seeds can deliver a significant number of health benefits, but that comes along with a few side effects, such as the choking hazard they pose, as well as potential hormone fluctuations.

Pregnant Women: One of the side effects of basil seeds is their potential impact on hormone levels in the body, namely estrogen. This can be dangerous for pregnant women, as it can stimulate menstruation and may result in complications for the baby.

Thyroid Issues: Those who suffer from thyroid imbalances or other hormonal issues should not use these seeds before speaking with their doctor.

Choking Hazard: Due to the effect that water and liquids have on these seeds, an improper ratio of liquid to seeds can result in a large gelatinous clump that can potentially be difficult to swallow. For this reason, these seeds are not recommended for anyone with swallowing difficulties, young children or the elderly.

THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF BASIL ESSENTIAL OILS

The health benefits of basil essential oil include its ability to treat nausea, motion sickness, indigestion, constipation, respiratory problems, and diabetes. Basil oil is also a good source of Vitamin A, magnesium, potassium, iron, and calcium.

The leaves and seeds of the basil plant are the important medicinal parts of this herb, which is regularly used in cuisines and recipes all over the world. Basil essential oil is popular in Europe, Central Asia, India and Southeast Asia. The oil is extensively used for culinary purposes in the Mediterranean region and still forms the active ingredient of many Italian recipes such as pesto. It is also used when making pasta and salads.

Basil was widely used in ancient times in places like India for various medicinal purposes (Ayurvedic medicine). The herb was used to treat diarrhea, cough, mucous discharges, constipation, indigestion, and certain skin diseases.

Cosmetic Applications:Basil essential oil is used topically and massaged into the skin. It enhances the luster of dull-looking skin and hair. As a result, it is extensively used in many skin care supplements that claim to improve the tone of your skin. It is also commonly used to treat the symptoms of acne and other skin infections.

Digestion:Basil essential oil is also used as a digestive tonic. Since basil oil has carminative properties, it is used for treating indigestion, constipation, stomach cramps and flatulence. It provides immediate relief from the gas in your stomach and intestines. It also has colic qualities and is therefore used to alleviate bowel pain.

Illness: Basil essential oil is effective in providing relief from colds, influenza and associated fevers. Due to its antispasmodic nature, it is frequently used to treat symptoms of whooping cough.

Respiratory:Along with its function in relieving coughs, it can also be used to treat asthma, bronchitis, and sinus infections.

Infections: Basil oil is good for treating a variety of infections such as cuts, wounds, skin infections, and bladder infections due to its antibacterial properties. It is also good for viral infections that attack the body and can enter the body through other wounds.

Stress Disorders:This essential oil has a refreshing effect when smelled or consumed, so it is used for treating nervous tension, mental fatigue, melancholy, migraines and depression. Due to the calming nature of basil essential oil, it is widely used in aromatherapy. Regularly using this essential oil provides mental strength and clarity.

Blood Circulation:It improves blood circulation and helps to increase and optimized various metabolic functions of the body.

Pain Relief: Basil essential oil is an analgesic and provides relief from pain. That is why this essential oil is often used in the treatment of arthritis, wounds, injuries, burns, bruises, scars, sports injuries, surgical recovery, sprains, and headaches.

Eye Health:It is ophthalmic and can quickly relieve bloodshot eyes.

Vomiting and Nausea:It can be used to prevent vomiting, particularly when the source of the nausea is motion sickness, but also from many other causes.

Itching:Basil essential oil is also a good treatment for itching from bites and stings from honey bees, insects and even snakes.

Word of Caution:Basil essential oil and basil in any other form should be avoided by pregnant, breastfeeding, or nursing women. On the other hand, some people suggest that it increases milk flow, but more research needs to be done.

suggested varieties

Asparagus: Mary Washington (Heirloom) (Asparagus officinalis​)

$0.25 - $5.60

This member of the lily family originated in the Mediterranean countries; the ancient Greeks and Romans greatly favored it. According to legend, Julius Caesar required his asparagus to be served with melted butter. By the 16th century, the kings of England and France had claimed it as their special delicacy, causing the vegetable to be nicknamed the "food of kings." Louis XIV of France had his own supply growing year round in greenhouses, since he greatly enjoyed it. In the Renaissance, asparagus was considered an elegant vegetable and often found at the tables of the wealthy. Asparagus came to America with the colonists, and has since grown wild all over the United States.

Oregano: Greek (Origanum vulgare hirtum)

$0.25 - $5.60

Greek Oregano grows wild on the sunny hillsides of the Mediterranean, and is often featured in the cuisine of that region. The Latin word for this herb comes from the Greek phrase, "joy of the mountains". According to ancient mythology, the Greek goddess of love gave oregano to man to bring him joy; tradition continues to associate oregano with joy and banishment of sorrow, bringing about the practice of crowning a bride with a wreath of oregano. For centuries, this plant has been used both for culinary and medicinal purposes; the fresh leaves were chewed for the relief of toothache, indigestion, or a lingering cough, and even the flowers were turned into a soft purple dye. In spite of its popularity in Europe, Americans did not fully discover oregano until after World War II, when returning soldiers and immigrants brought with them an enthusiasm for its flavor. Recent scientific research has found that the oil of oregano has significant antibacterial, antioxidant, and antiviral effects, whether used externally or internally.

Oregano: Italian (Origanum vulgare)

$0.25 - $5.60

Italian Oregano is a very popular "pizza herb" widely used in Italian, Greek and Mexican cooking. Leaves can be used fresh or dried and add warm spicy flavor to your favorite recipes! Bright blue-green plants grow 6" tall and up to 24" in diameter. Leaves can be harvested in 85 to 95 days (before flowers appear). Perennial. Drought tolerant.

Petunia: Shanin Wild (Petunia violacea)

$0.25 - $5.60

This species is the heat loving, blossom-heavy half of the domesticated petunia. A member of the nightshade family, it has its origins as a native species of South America. Since this genus also includes the tobacco plant, the common name “petunia” comes from an obscure word for tobacco. The species name “violacea” comes from the Latin word for “violet.” ​This tender perennial is usually grown as an annual in cooler climates, and will reseed itself.

Tomato: Amana Orange (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)

$1.00 - $5.60

The Amana Orange tomato is an Iowa heirloom obtained from Gary Staley of Brandon, Florida, who named it for the Amana Colonies of Amana, Iowa. The Amana Colonies, a National Historic Landmark since 1965, were completely self sufficient German Pietist communities. The Colonies imported with them their traditions and handcrafts from Germany, including heirloom vegetables such as Amana Orange.

Tomato: Beefsteak (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)

$0.50 - $5.60

Seed expert Peter Henderson introduced this tomato in 1894, naming it "Henderson's Crimson Cushion." Later renamed Beefsteak, it became a favorite of gardeners in the Northeast. It was developed for resistance to fusarium wilt and nematodes, as well as meaty flesh for eating fresh or cooking.

Tomato: Green Zebra (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)

$1.00 - $5.60

Seed expert Tom Wagner of Everett, Washington bred Green Zebra from several green tomato varieties, including Evergreen. Since he was young, Tom had been fascinated with green tomatoes, but was disappointed with their tendency to crack. He set out to create a new green tomato, and Green Zebra was the result; he first offered it for sale in his seed catalog in 1983.

Tomato: Sweetie Cherry (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)

$1.00 - $5.60

The Heirloom Sweetie Cherry Tomato has a firm texture and was produced for commercial sale in 1980. These succulent fruits can grow up to 1" in diameter, and even though they aren't very big, they still have incredibly high sugar content.

Tomato: Yellow Pear (Heirloom) (Lycopersicon lycopersicum)

$0.50 - $5.60

History well documents the Yellow Pear tomato, indicating the presence of this variety in Europe as early as the 17th century. The earliest known reference to this heirloom in North America comes from the sale records of the Hudson Bay Company in Vancouver, Canada. Numerous heirloom seed companies in the United States still offer Yellow Pear as an unusual, delicious little tomato.